Youth Entrepreneur Opens Cultural Space in Ulsan
This time, we met a young entrepreneur in Ulsan who has opened a gallery and cultural space.
While there are several spaces in Ulsan, it is rare to find a case where a young person has opened a space for exhibitions.
We had the opportunity to speak with Ryu Saerom, the representative of the Daham Project, which is expected to bring new cultural experiences to Ulsan.
Q. Introduction
Hello, I am Ryu Saerom, the representative of the Daham Project.
The name Daham means 'many people come together' and 'we will do many things.'
This space was remodeled from a restaurant that had operated for a long time into a gallery-type cultural space. While many people used to come here to fill their stomachs, we hope it becomes a place where they can fill their hearts and emotions through art.
It is not just a viewing space; we aim to create a new cultural space where local people and youth can meet, experience, and collaborate.
We have been open for about two months, mainly hosting exhibitions filled with my personal desires. Besides solo exhibitions, we also welcome other exhibitions, hoping they can engage with the citizens of Ulsan.
In October, we plan to hold an exhibition featuring works by individuals with disabilities, conveying that art can be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone.
Q. What sets Daham Project apart from regular galleries?
First, we have large glass windows that allow people to see inside from outside. While some visitors come in naturally, I believe curiosity is sparked when they can see inside. Typically, galleries are closed off, but we have no entry fee, making it a more approachable space.
Although it is a gallery, we also offer educational programs and classes that anyone can book. You can even bring a cup of coffee and enjoy a relaxing space. During exhibitions, you can chat over tea with the artists.
We also plan to operate a shop selling goods and small items made by artists.
Q. What inspired you to start this venture?
While I am not an artist, I studied art and have more experience as a curator helping others with their exhibitions. Through my planning activities, I realized that most local artists want to create enjoyable exhibitions for many people.
This led me to envision a space that could capture a diverse range of experiences rather than just a typical gallery. I set up in a location that had been vacant for quite some time, thinking it might stand out in an area filled with entertainment venues but lacking cultural facilities.
When talking to passersby, I found that many people feel hesitant to enter exhibition spaces, showing that the local cultural perception is still quite limited.
I wanted to change this perception, and fortunately, the building owner resonated with this idea and has been very cooperative. I have personally worked on the floors, wallpaper, and paint, which has given me a sense of ownership over the space.
Q. Thoughts on Ulsan
I didn't create this space because there weren't many like it in Ulsan, but because I felt it was needed. I hope many people can enjoy this space.
Additionally, I hope more galleries and cultural spaces will emerge in Ulsan. It would be great to see networks formed for sharing information and creating spaces filled with unique sensibilities.
As a native of Ulsan, I find this place to be fun and enjoyable. There’s a saying that you have to know boredom to find joy, and I believe that as I explore and accumulate enjoyable experiences, Ulsan has become a more exciting place for me.
I hope others can share in these feelings. While it seems that local citizens may not have a strong interest in cultural activities, those who have moved here from other regions often do. They see the Taehwa River from a new perspective, which I think is essential.
Q. Final thoughts
I am someone who believes in taking action. If you stay still, nothing happens. Every small attempt, from brushing your teeth to finding a good restaurant, is a form of challenge.
Even if you’re not good at cooking, thinking about making something can boost your self-esteem and lead to further exploration. The same goes for the Daham Project. I sought out the right space and embraced opportunities without hesitation, aiming to create my own space.
These small thoughts have connected to bring us to where we are now. Some may see me as an unusual person, but I hope you can view this as one individual's journey.
If you’re curious about meeting someone unique, I invite you to visit the Daham Project.
We have heard the story of Ryu Saerom, who is making efforts to lower the barriers to art and create a space for local youth and citizens to come together. Instead of grand ambitions, she has built a small yet bright cultural oasis through small, proactive attempts.
On a day when you long for warm cultural experiences and connections, why not gently knock on the door of the Daham Project, where art shines through the glass walls?
Source :https://blog.naver.com/ulsan_nuri/224384202798
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